Inequality has a profound impact on justice in global politics. In the IB Global Politics course, inequality refers to uneven distribution of wealth, power, opportunities, and resources both within states and between states. These disparities shape who benefits from global systems and who is marginalised, making justice uneven and contested at the global level.
One key way inequality affects justice is through unequal access to rights and opportunities. While human rights may be universal in principle, their enjoyment depends heavily on economic and social conditions. Individuals in wealthier states are far more likely to access education, healthcare, legal protection, and political participation than those in poorer states. This gap creates a situation where rights exist formally but are not realised equally, undermining substantive justice.
Inequality also affects justice by reinforcing power imbalances between states. Wealthier and more powerful states often shape global rules on trade, finance, and development in ways that serve their interests. Poorer states have limited influence over decision-making that affects them directly. As a result, global governance systems may appear fair in design but operate unjustly in practice.
Economic inequality is closely linked to structural injustice. Global economic systems often reward capital, technology, and market access, advantages held by already-developed states and elites. Meanwhile, poorer states may rely on low-value exports and cheap labour, limiting development prospects. This perpetuates cycles of disadvantage and raises questions about whether global economic arrangements are just.
Within states, inequality undermines justice by excluding groups from political and legal protection. Marginalised communities may lack access to courts, face discrimination, or be disproportionately affected by environmental harm and conflict. When justice systems favour the wealthy or powerful, equality before the law becomes meaningless. This internal inequality often reflects and reinforces global injustice.
Inequality also affects intergenerational justice. Unequal access to education, resources, and political influence means that disadvantage is passed from one generation to the next. Globally, this locks regions into long-term patterns of poverty and exclusion. Justice becomes harder to achieve when starting points are so unequal.
For IB Global Politics students, analysing inequality and justice requires moving beyond individual responsibility to examine systems and structures. High-level answers explain how inequality limits fairness, distorts power, and challenges the realisation of justice globally. Evaluation should recognise that addressing inequality is essential for meaningful global justice, not merely an economic concern.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is global inequality?
Global inequality refers to unequal distribution of wealth, power, and opportunity between and within states. It affects access to rights and justice. IB students should link inequality to structure and power.
How does inequality undermine justice?
Inequality prevents equal access to rights and legal protection. Those with fewer resources are disadvantaged. This makes justice uneven in practice. IB answers should highlight this gap.
Is inequality only an economic issue?
No, inequality is also political and social. It affects representation, voice, and influence. Justice is shaped by all these factors. IB analysis should be multidimensional.
Can global justice exist without reducing inequality?
It is difficult to achieve justice without addressing inequality. Large disparities undermine fairness. Many argue inequality must be reduced for justice to be meaningful. IB responses should evaluate this claim.
How should this topic be answered in exams?
Students should define inequality clearly and explain its impact on justice. Linking global and domestic levels strengthens answers. Evaluation of structural causes improves marks.
